 An ATA Carnet is a standardized international customs document that serves as a temporary passport for goods, allowing businesses and professionals to temporarily import merchandise into foreign countries without paying customs duties, import taxes, or posting bonds. Issued under the terms of the ATA Convention (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) and the Istanbul Convention, this document replaces individual customs documentation normally required for temporary imports in each country visited. The carnet acts as both a customs declaration and a guarantee against the payment of duties and taxes, which would otherwise be due if the goods were not re-exported.
Key Characteristics
- Temporary Admission Mechanism
- Limited Validity Period
- Eligible Goods Categories
- Standardized Documentation Format
- International Guarantee Chain
